MOSAIC Helps Teen Move Forward from Depression

Memorial Behavioral Health’s Children’s Mosaic Project is a collaboration of community resources that form a complete network of behavioral healthcare to youth in central Illinois. MOSAIC, or Meaningful Opportunities for Success and Achievement Through Service Integration for Children, brings together healthcare services, schools and neighborhood outreach programs to create an integrated mosaic of services.

Now a happy and healthy teenager, Trina* wanted to share her story to let others know they are not alone. Trina, a high school senior, took part in MOSAIC counseling services after she scored in the highly elevated range on a social-emotional screen. Although she had never had any counseling services before, she said she often felt depressed.

Trina is a very active student, volunteers at a local youth organization, is very well liked by her teachers and is currently enrolled to begin college this fall. On the outside, she was composed and smiling, but inside she was suffering from Major Depressive Disorder with suicidal ideations.

“I think there is a stigma of mental illness among African Americans.” Trina said. “I thought this was normal and I should just deal with it on my own. I think more needs to be done in my community as far as advocacy. I want to become a leader, mentor other kids and show them they can be successful, too.”

When asked what her thoughts were on the process of receiving mental health treatment, Trina said, “It took me a long time to get better and really deal with my issues. You asked me questions that really made me look at myself, at things I didn’t want to deal with. You really helped me recover.”

In addition to youth services, MOSAIC offers resources to moms who are experiencing stressful times. If you or someone you love could benefit from MOSAIC services, visit ChildrensMosaic.org. *name changed to protect privacy

Join Our LiveWell Email ListEmail Address

Have a topic you'd like to see an article on? Let us know!Submit A Topic